Night Elf Posted August 10, 2009 Share Posted August 10, 2009 We are loving these dvds from netflix. It's history and science blended together. He basically theorizes about how earlier inventions led to new inventions and to our present day technology. It's fascinating! For example, the episode we're watching now shows how the pike (weapon) invented and first used by the army of Charles the Bold leads to the moon landing. Here's a quote from Wikipedia about the series: "Connections was a ten-episode documentary television series created and narrated by science historian James Burke. The series was produced and directed by Mick Jackson of the BBC Science & Features Department and first aired in 1978 (1979 in the USA). It took an interdisciplinary approach to the history of science and invention and demonstrates how various discoveries, scientific achievements, and historical world events built off one another in an interconnected way to bring about particular aspects of modern technology. The series is well-known for Burke's impeccable narration (especially its dry humour), historical reenactments, intricate working models, skillful use of classical music (most notably Fortuna Imperatrix Mundi, or "O Fortuna" from Carmina Burana), and shots on location as far afield as Penang (Malaysia)." Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HappyGrace Posted August 10, 2009 Share Posted August 10, 2009 This sounds like a great series! I have on my "to do list" for this year to watch some good documentaries! (I always forget that as a learning tool.) Thanks! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pam Wilhelm Posted August 10, 2009 Share Posted August 10, 2009 We used to watch them when they were on regular tv...... so we can get them on Netflix? Super Cool!!! Great series!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HappyGrace Posted August 10, 2009 Share Posted August 10, 2009 looks like it's on YouTube too! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wendi Posted August 10, 2009 Share Posted August 10, 2009 I put these in our Netflix queue. It's good to hear they're worthwhile. I'll try to move them up in the queue, but right now we're going through a lot of Mythbusters and MST3K. :tongue_smilie: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hornblower Posted August 10, 2009 Share Posted August 10, 2009 Oh, Connections is wonderful. He was quite ahead of his time in many things. The Trigger Effect - which I think is how the first series started - is an incredibly powerful episode for people who can't imagine a world without technology. This 10 min little clip from that episode is well worth watching. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6H-w9Rm46o&feature=related Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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